The majority of individuals think that they must adhere to the official speed limit when they drive on Californian roads. They frequently are unaware that this is only accurate under ideal conditions. They must adhere to what the law defines as “reasonable” pace in other situations. Why does that matter? What is an appropriate speed?
Discover what factors the California Department of Motor Vehicles considers when determining what an acceptable speed is by reading on. Call Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation if you have been in an automobile accident and think that someone else was at blame.
Traffic
Regarding safe driving distances and traffic, the DMV recommends two pieces of advice. First, they advise slower driving when there are more motorists on the road. Second, they assert that they ought to go at the same pace as the traffic.
Please take note that the second point only applies when traffic is moving at a slower speed. It probably will not help if you tell the police that you were just following the flow of traffic if you are on a road with a 55-mph speed restriction and you receive a ticket for driving 70 mph.
Road conditions
On various types of road surfaces, different driving speeds are appropriate. For instance, you should probably drive more slowly than you would if the asphalt were wet. If you are driving on an unpaved road, you will have less traction and control. You should probably drive more slowly as a result. Your car may be pulled to one side or the other by an uneven road. All of these circumstances can call for a slower pace.
Bicycles and people
Even if you have the right of way according to the law, you must always yield to pedestrians and cyclists. In most situations, whether or not a pedestrian was in a designated crosswalk does not matter if you are at fault for the collision. It will probably be deemed your fault unless they stepped out immediately in front of your automobile. As a result, you might need to reduce your speed if there are vehicles or bicycles on the road.
Weather In California, the most of us do not experience the kind of weather that can cause significant traffic difficulties, including snow and ice. Rain and fog, however, may pose serious risks. Even on a really hot day, pavement can heat up and become more hazardous. The weather should always be taken into account while determining a safe speed.
The important thing to remember is that only ideal weather and ideal conditions are considered when listing speed restrictions. It is prudent and the law to slow down in anything less. Keep in mind that you can call the Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation if you are involved in an accident.
